Preventative Care Goals for Your Pet

Do you want to help your pet live their best life possible? Here are a few goals that can help you stay on target and help them have a healthy Spring:

Exercise more — Pets need exercise, too. Let your pup join you on a jog, walk, or hike. Get games for your cat that encourage movement, like laser pointers and cat tunnels.

Limit junk food — Showing your pet love by giving her treats can lead to an unhealthy weight and a multitude of other health problems. Depending on your pet’s size and breed, one treat could be similar to a Big Mac for a human. Do your research, and limit calories from treats to 10 percent of your pet’s diet.

Brush teeth — Imagine going just one day without brushing your teeth. Now, think of how your pet feels after going possibly years without a good teeth cleaning. Try to brush your pet’s teeth every day. If she’s not used to it, start slowly with your finger and some pet-friendly toothpaste, and then work your way to longer sessions with a pet-friendly toothbrush.

Spend quality time — You can buy your pet toys, give her treats, and send her to the best doggy daycare in town, but nothing says “love” like spending quality time together. The highlight of your pet’s day is simply being with you.

Visit the veterinarian — For your pet, skipping one annual veterinary exam is similar to you not visiting a doctor for seven years. Pets should be seen at least once per year (more often for senior pets over seven years of age) so we can assess their health and catch any potential health problems before they progress and become more difficult and more expensive to treat.

Questions about keeping your pet happy and healthy? Call our office and let Spanish Trail Animal Hospital help you and your pet have the best year yet!